Facial numbness can be caused by several nutritional deficiencies. One notable example is a vitamin B12 deficiency. While often associated with numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, some individuals experience these sensations in their face or head as well. Leighanna Jagels, ND and owner of Wildcraft Family Wellness states this explicitly. Additionally, severe magnesium deficiency (hypomagnesemia) can lead to ongoing paresthesia, which includes facial numbness. https://www.southvalleyneurology.com/blog/can-numbness-and-tingling-be-signs-of-a-serious-problem A calcium deficiency (hypocalcemia) can also cause numbness and tingling, potentially affecting the face. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326062 Furthermore, a severe thiamine deficiency can affect cranial nerves, including those responsible for facial sensation, resulting in facial numbness. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4208100/
It's crucial to understand that facial numbness has many potential causes beyond nutritional deficiencies. These include:
- Underlying medical conditions: Migraines, anxiety, nerve damage, shingles, Bell's palsy, and even pituitary tumors can cause facial tingling or numbness. [https://www.healthline.com/health/tingling-in-face, https://www.verywellhealth.com/face-tingling-8671841, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/pituitary-tumors/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html]
- Medications: Certain medications can list facial numbness as a side effect. [https://www.verywellhealth.com/face-tingling-8671841]
- Trauma or injury: Injuries to the face or head can also cause numbness. [https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/numbness/basics/definition/sym-20050938]
Therefore, it's vital to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment if you experience facial numbness. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management strategies.
